a right bastard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a right bastard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used informally to describe someone who is perceived as unpleasant, mean, or difficult to deal with. Example: "After hearing how he treated his colleagues, I can confidently say he's a right bastard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

If he knew, then he's what our British cousins would call a right bastard.

The New Yorker

"Its been a right bastard to get printing properly," he said in an IRC chat.

TechCrunch

The top table for gaming franchises is a right bastard to gain a seat at – and once you're there, most of the people below will consistently throw abuse at you for daring to stick to a formula that works.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Kevin isn't doing this because he's a right nasty bastard.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I expected you to be a right dour bastard, I say.

The Guardian - Music

In keeping with the spirit of the side, Noble was yet another on-pitch leader and a right nasty bastard when necessary - "a lovely, typically earthy Manchester lad," wrote Eamon Dunphy.

The Guardian - Sport

In another, Limmy announces he feels like being "a right bad bastard" and steps on someone's shoe, before agreeing to take a tourist's photo, secretly deleting their entire holiday's photos as he does so.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Meat Pie finished 'cos I got into sniff and started acting like a right arrogant bastard: people telling me I had this great voice, and I should be signed," Williamson says.

The Guardian - Music

Noun 1. guzzler, the aural equivalent of pint of cream being poured in your ears, a right proper, fat bastard, Henry VIII of a track E: Rude, rude, rude guzzlers all night, stay tuned!

Vice

He's perpetually ill-at-ease on camera, perhaps because he knows that viewers have to wade through several decades of unpleasant political baggage to see him as anything other than a slimy right wing bastard.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The secretary general of Strass, Morgane Merteuil, said that the "343 bastards" were "defending a right to screw us, while we are defending our right not to die of hunger".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a right bastard" to add emphasis and a colloquial tone when describing someone particularly unpleasant or difficult. Be mindful of your audience, as the phrase can be considered offensive.

Common error

Avoid using "a right bastard" in formal or professional settings. Its strong, negative connotation can damage your credibility and create an inappropriate atmosphere. Consider alternatives like "unpleasant person" or "difficult character" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a right bastard" functions as a derogatory descriptor, intensifying the negative qualities associated with the noun "bastard". As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to express strong disapproval or contempt towards someone. The word "right" acts as an intensifier, amplifying the pejorative meaning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a right bastard" is an informal and strongly negative expression used to describe someone considered extremely unpleasant or difficult. Ludwig AI validates its correctness but emphasizes its potential for causing offense. Its primary function is to convey disapproval, and its use is best reserved for informal contexts. While alternatives exist, such as "a complete scoundrel" or "a real jerk", they may not fully capture the intensity of the original phrase. When using "a right bastard", be mindful of your audience and the potential impact of your words. The most frequent sources where you can find the use of this expression are news and media websites.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete scoundrel

Focuses on the deceitful nature of the person, rather than just their unpleasantness.

a nasty piece of work

Highlights the unpleasant and potentially malicious nature of the person.

a real jerk

A more general term for an unpleasant or inconsiderate person.

a despicable human being

Expresses strong contempt and moral outrage.

an absolute menace

Highlights the troublesome and disruptive nature of the person.

an awful character

Emphasizes the negative traits and moral failings of the person.

a proper rogue

Emphasizes the mischievous and unconventional behavior.

a dreadful person

A more formal and general way of expressing dislike.

a total nightmare

Focuses on the difficulty and stress associated with dealing with the person.

a thoroughly unpleasant individual

A more polite and indirect way of expressing strong disapproval.

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone "a right bastard"?

Calling someone "a right bastard" means they are considered an extremely unpleasant, mean, or difficult person. The phrase carries a strong negative connotation and should be used with caution.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a right bastard" in formal writing?

No, it is generally not appropriate to use "a right bastard" in formal writing. The phrase is considered vulgar and offensive, making it unsuitable for professional or academic contexts.

Are there less offensive alternatives to "a right bastard"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a complete scoundrel", "a real jerk", or "an unpleasant person". These options are less vulgar and may be more appropriate in certain situations.

How can I use the phrase "a right bastard" correctly in a sentence?

You can use "a right bastard" to describe someone whose behavior is particularly objectionable. For example, "After the way he treated his employees, I knew he was a right bastard."